PSY 1900 PROFESSIONALISM BASICS
The PSY 1900 experience is a great opportunity for students studying psychology. While you are interning at a site, it is important that you treat the experience as you would a job. Poor performance or behavior can result in being “LET GO” (i.e. FIRED) FROM YOUR PSY 1900 PLACEMENT. This guide sheet is designed to clarify what constitutes a successful internship experience. If, at any time during your placement, you are unclear about what is expected of you on the job, approach your supervisor and ask for clarification.
Adhere to the Schedule. Not reporting for your schedule hours is not acceptable and may result in termination and the loss of credits. If you are ill, or have an unexpected issue, contact your supervisor immediately, giving adequate notice. Any changes in your scheduled hours must be approved by your supervisor. Treat your placement like a job – you are expected to be there when scheduled.
Be on Time. If your start time is 9AM, it does not mean you can show up at 9:03. Punctuality reflects a character of respect and integrity, qualities that are highly valued by employers. Be ready to work from minute one of your start time.
Dress neatly and appropriately. Most of the PSY 1900 placements are relatively casual. Students can usually wear khakis/button down shirt, slacks, sweaters, etc. You should not wear anything too casual i.e., sandals, sweatpants, T-shirts. Keep in mind the populations with which you will be working and dress respectfully. If you aren’t sure what you should wear on your first day, ask your site supervisor for dress code guidelines.
Language – BE CAREFUL. There is clear difference between the casual talk you engage in with friends and office talk. Swearing and/or profanity are NEVER appropriate in an office/job setting. You are considered a role model to the population with whom you will be working. For sites with less structure (i.e., WPIC) you will likely hear the younger patients swear, as well as some of the adults. However, as a student intern, you will be representing the Psychology department. Therefore, treat the position as if it were a job and keep your choice of language professional and respectful.
Topic of conversation. As you become more comfortable with your coworkers and supervisor, work hard to maintain your professional demeanor. Do not engage in ANY office gossip, or in conversations that are too personal or controversial. Rather, engage in conversations that are relevant to your work and what you are learning through the internship. Always speak to your co-workers and supervisors with respect. Again, profanity, swearing or crude language is completely unprofessional and inappropriate.
Commitment . Be willing, flexible and persistent. Be the person who can be counted upon to do whatever, whenever. Be indispensable and you will be someone that stands out in your supervisor / coworker’s memory as a potential employee in the future. Keep in mind you may need a letter of recommendation for graduate school or a future job opportunity!
Attitude. Be energetic, enthusiastic and cooperative. In tough situations, stay calm and positive. Do not react negatively. If you make an error, take responsibility for your actions in a well-mannered way. Making excuses, blaming others, yelling or lashing out is not appropriate under any circumstances. Rather, address any conflicts or significant differences of opinion calmly and only with those directly involved. Do be sure to keep lines of communication open with your supervisor.
Be natural, be yourself. Remember that the “professionalism” part of interning doesn’t just happen in one day. It is a process that occurs over the course of the internship. You will develop your own style of leadership that is professional but unique to your own personality. You can do it!
Network and Make Connections. Get phone numbers and letters of reference or recommendations from your supervisors once you’ve earned their recognition as a superior worker. Use your internship as a stepping stone to a future career. Meet as many people as you can!
Signing this document indicates that you understand your responsibilities as an intern at your placement facility. Satisfactory completion of this course requires that a professional demeanor be maintained throughout the placement. Additionally, poor performance or behavior may result in an intern being “relieved” from duties. In such case, no credit will be received for PSY 1900.
INTERN______DATE ______
ADVISOR ______DATE ______
Rev. 7/10